Save Simplify your weeknight routine with this One-Pan Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo, a comforting and vibrant dinner designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. This dish brings together golden-browned chicken sausage, tender orzo, and crisp broccoli florets, all simmered in a savory broth and finished with a bright burst of fresh lemon and creamy Parmesan cheese.
Save The secret to this recipe is the way the orzo toasts in the olive oil and sausage drippings before the liquid is added. This simple step infuses the pasta with a nutty depth that complements the aromatic garlic and Italian seasoning, making every bite feel like a sophisticated restaurant-style meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 cup (180 g) orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 3 cups (300 g) broccoli florets
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2½ cups (600 ml) chicken broth
- Juice of ½–1 lemon
- ½ cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Step 2
- In the same skillet, add diced onion. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add uncooked orzo to the skillet and toast, stirring, for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Step 4
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 5
- Stir in broccoli florets and return sausage to the skillet. Cover and cook for another 4–5 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp and orzo is al dente.
- Step 6
- Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan until creamy, then add lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 7
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes to thicken, then garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Toasting the orzo adds a nutty depth to the dish that elevates the flavor profile. For the best melting and consistency, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is versatile; you can easily substitute the chicken sausage for turkey sausage or even a plant-based alternative. For an extra citrus punch, try adding a bit of fresh lemon zest along with the juice at the very end.
Serviervorschläge
While this is a complete meal on its own, it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or a piece of warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy lemon-Parmesan sauce.
Save Balanced, hearty, and full of fresh flavors, this one-pan meal is sure to become a favorite in your household rotation. Enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner with minimal stress and maximum satisfaction.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the chicken sausage?
Yes, turkey sausage or plant-based alternatives work well and maintain the dish's hearty texture.
- → How do I know when the orzo is done?
Cook until the orzo is tender but still slightly firm to the bite, typically around 12-13 minutes total cooking time after adding broth.
- → What is the purpose of toasting the orzo?
Toasting the orzo before simmering adds a subtle nutty flavor and enhances the overall depth of the dish.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free orzo and verify sausage ingredients to ensure the dish is gluten-free.
- → How can I add extra brightness to the dish?
Adding lemon zest along with lemon juice lifts the flavors, adding a fresh citrus aroma and boost.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
A simple green salad or crusty bread complements the hearty skillet for a balanced meal.